ERICKSON, THOMAS ALAN East Grand Rapids Thomas Alan Erickson, passed away February 1, 2014. Locally residing accomplished classical musician and highly sought after Instructor of Double Bass. Employed by the Grand Rapids Symphony Orchestra for over thirty years as Assistant Principal Double Bass having won his position in his mid-twenties through national audition during the Bychkov era of GRSO. Attended University of Minnesota and Eastman School of Music. Also played in Florida Symphony, Syracuse Symphony and Spoleto Festival Dei Due Mondi Spoleto, Italy and Charleston, South Carolina. He most recently auditioned for and was invited to play with the International Symphony of Michigan and Ontario. He taught double bass at several different schools for three decades and throughout the years at their home music studio. As a teacher, he believed in teaching people to think for themselves and to pursue their lives with principles and conviction. He was particularly fond of school visits with his string quintet and educational concerts. He greatly appreciated the outdoors, living in the Great Lakes region, visits to the Upper Peninsula, opportunities to visit the Stratford Festival of Canada, visits to many places in Europe, and did some climbing in the western U.S.A. The memory of his wit and unique sparkle is cherished. He is and will be greatly missed. Memorial Service will be held March 8 1:00 p.m. at Mayflower Church, 2345 Robinson Rd SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49506. In lieu of flowers please consider a donation in memory of Tom to St. Cecilia Music Center or to the recipient of your choice.